Delta State Government Pledges Support to Police in Tackling Security Challenges
By Marian Kogolo
ASABA/Nigeria: The Delta State Government has pledged full support to the state’s police command and other security agencies, promising technical and logistical assistance to combat security challenges across the state.
During a courtesy visit by a team from the Delta Police Command, led by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Bright Edafe, to his office in Asaba on Tuesday, the State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, emphasized that security is a collective responsibility, not just that of the police. He expressed concern over the spread of fake security reports by unknown individuals posing as journalists, stressing the importance of accurate and truthful news dissemination.
“As Commissioner for Information, I’ve convened multiple meetings with stakeholders in the media, particularly government-appointed media officials, to address the issue of false reports. We have achieved significant progress in promoting truthful reporting,” Osuoza stated. He assured the police command of his office’s continued cooperation and openness to assist in ensuring the safety of all Deltans, which he highlighted as a top priority for the current administration.
Dr. Osuoza also condemned the recent rise in kidnappings, referencing the abduction of former Commissioner for Technical Education, Hon. Joan Onyemeachi, and urged residents to remain vigilant to safeguard their safety. He cautioned reporters, especially those online, to report events accurately to avoid inciting unnecessary panic among the public.
The Commissioner encouraged the police to regularly brief both online and traditional reporters to ensure accurate reporting. “My office is always ready to support the force whenever necessary. We must work together to maintain the peace and security of our state,” he added.
Earlier, SP Bright Edafe informed the Commissioner that the visit was prompted by concerns over the proliferation of fake reports, particularly those from government information officers, which misrepresent the state’s security situation. He clarified that while he was not opposed to reporting events in the state, he condemned the spread of false and unverifiable information that could cause undue alarm among the populace.
“Nigerians should be patriotic in their reporting,” Edafe urged, adding that the police force deserves recognition when they successfully address criminal activities. He also appealed to the public to refrain from damaging public infrastructure during peaceful protests.
The PPRO congratulated Dr. Osuoza on his appointment and expressed a commitment to work closely with him to form a strong alliance against the spread of misinformation by social media influencers. The police team was received by the Commissioner, the functioning Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Theresa Adiabua-Oliko, and other directors of the Ministry of Information.
